Understanding Radiation Therapy in Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that destroys cancer cells using high-energy rays in the colon or rectum. Most frequently, it is used for shrinking tumours before surgery for rectal cancer, improving surgical outcomes and reducing risk of cancer recurrences.

Key Takeaways:

According to Dr Abhishek Krishna, Consultant Radiation Oncologist at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, Radiation therapy is a vital component of current treatment options for colorectal cancer; particularly in cases where only surgical removal of tumours would not allow for complete elimination of tumours.

What Is Radiation Therapy and How Does It Work?

Many patients inquire about what radiation therapy is for colorectal cancer and how radiation therapy for colorectal cancer is performed. Radiation therapy consists of precisely grading controlled high energy rays to destroy the DNA of malignant (cancer) cells. 

Targeted radiation therapy is delivered directly at the tumour and targets only the tumour to avoid damaging areas of healthy tissues that are near the tumour. Therefore, this is considered an effective way to control tumour growth and improve treatment outcomes.

Radiation therapy can be administered as a solo therapy or combined with chemotherapy and/or surgical procedures to treat colorectal cancer.

When Is Radiation Therapy Used for Colorectal Cancer?

Radiation therapy for colorectal cancer is more commonly used in rectal cancer than in colon cancer because of the rectum’s fixed location within the pelvis.

Radiation therapy for rectal cancer may be used:

• Before surgery to shrink the tumour.
  

• After surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.
  

• When surgery is not possible.
  

• To relieve symptoms in advanced cancer.

In contrast, radiation treatment for colon cancer is used less frequently but may be recommended in certain advanced cases.

How Does Radiation Therapy Help in Rectal Cancer?

Rectal cancer radiation therapy is often used before surgery to reduce tumour size. This makes surgical removal easier and more effective.

When used before surgery, radiation therapy can:

• Reduce tumour size.
  

• Lower the risk of recurrence.
  

• Improve surgical success.
  

• Preserve normal bowel function.

Radiation therapy plays a major role in improving long-term outcomes for rectal cancer patients.

What Are the Types of Radiation Therapy Used?

The most common type used for colorectal cancer is external beam radiation therapy. This method directs radiation from outside the body toward the tumour.

Treatment is usually given over several sessions, allowing healthy cells time to recover between treatments.

The exact treatment plan depends on tumour size, location, and overall health.

What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Colon cancer radiation therapy side effects vary depending on treatment area and duration.

Common side effects include:

• Fatigue.
  

• Skin irritation.
  

• Diarrhoea.
  

• Bowel discomfort.
  

• Loss of appetite.

Most side effects are temporary and improve after treatment ends.

Doctors monitor patients closely to manage any discomfort.

How Is Radiation Therapy Combined With Other Treatments?

Radiation therapy is often used alongside chemotherapy and surgery as part of comprehensive colorectal cancer treatment options.

Combining treatments helps:

• Improve tumour control.
  

• Increase treatment effectiveness.
  

• Reduce cancer recurrence risk.

Treatment plans are personalised for each patient.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is radiation therapy for colorectal cancer?

It is a treatment that uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells in the colon or rectum.

2. When is radiation therapy used for rectal cancer?

It is often used before surgery to shrink tumours or after surgery to prevent recurrence.

3. Is radiation therapy used for colon cancer?

It is less common but may be used in certain advanced cases.

4. What are common radiation side effects?

Fatigue, diarrhoea, and skin irritation are common but usually temporary.

5. Does radiation therapy cure colorectal cancer?

It helps control cancer and improves treatment success, especially when combined with surgery.

Read Also 

1. When Should You Consider Radiation for Breast Cancer?

2. Differences Between Colorectal And Colon Cancer

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding colostomy surgery, colostomy bags, recovery, or ongoing care. Do not ignore medical advice or delay seeking treatment based on information shared in this article. While insights are shared by Dr Abhishek Krishna, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, and are based on reliable medical understanding, individual patient conditions, recovery, and outcomes may vary. MrMed does not endorse or promote any specific hospital, product, or treatment unless explicitly stated.